Lachie Neale prepares for Brisbane Lions qualifying final appearance

Brisbane Lions midfielder Lachie Neale enters the upcoming qualifying final against Sydney in strong form after helping his team secure a third-place finish on the ladder. Despite off-field personal challenges and uncertainty regarding his free agency status following a recent visit to Collingwood, Neale maintained a high level of play throughout the 2026 season. The veteran currently leads the league in centre clearances and remains among the leaders in total clearances and contested possessions. Coach Chris Fagan credited Neale's ability to compartmentalize external distractions, noting that the player's focus has remained on team performance. The Lions are set to face Sydney in a qualifying final at 3.15pm AEST this week, with the match broadcast on Seven, 7plus, Kayo Sports, and Fox Footy. Neale, who successfully returned from an ankle injury during last year's Grand Final, continues to be a central figure for Brisbane as the club pursues another finals campaign.

• 8:00 PMAFL — Amid a year like no other, Neale is readying himself for another September charge